In Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the phrase "To be or not to be" encapsulates the central theme of existence and the struggle with life's challenges. Hamlet, the protagonist, contemplates the nature of life and death, weighing the pain of living against the uncertainty of what lies beyond. This famous soliloquy reveals his deep existential crisis and the contemplation of mortality, reflecting the human condition's complexities.

The quote highlights Hamlet's internal conflict and philosophical inquiry into the value of life. Through this introspection, Shakespeare delves into universal questions about suffering, choice, and the fear of the unknown, making it one of the most memorable lines in literature, resonating with audiences across generations.